This grain-like seed is quick to cook and has an earthy flavor that goes well in salads, soups and stews.
Stovetop Quinoa
Ingredients
1 cup quinoa (if not pre-rinsed, rinse well using a fine-mesh strainer)
2 cups water
¼ teaspoon salt (optional)
Directions
- Wash hands with soap and water.
- In a saucepan, bring water to a boil. Add quinoa and salt, if desired, and return the mixture to a boil.
- Reduce heat to low, cover pan and simmer for 12 minutes.
- Turn off heat and let stand until water is absorbed and quinoa has the texture you like, about 5 to 10 minutes.
- Refrigerate leftovers within 2 hours.
Notes
- For more flavor, cook with broth or milk instead of water.
- For a roasted flavor, toast the grains in the saucepan. Stir the grains around at medium heat for a few minutes before adding liquid.
- Topping ideas: fresh, frozen or dried fruit; milk or yogurt; chopped nuts or seeds; cinnamon or other spices. Savory toppings include vegetables and cheese.
- Add to soups, grain bowls or grain salads.
- No strainer? Use a clean coffee filter.
You might also like...
Corn and Tomato Salad
Corn and Tomato Salad
Light and refreshing salad idea with Italian dressing and fresh herbs. A great option for side dishes, potlucks or summer BBQs.
Prepare:
5 minutes
Makes:
3 cups
Slow Cooker Pulled Pork
Slow Cooker Pulled Pork
This easy Pulled Pork recipe is made with pork shoulder and spices from your pantry. Slow cooking is a simple way to create tender and juicy pork for many different meals.
Prepare:
15 minutes
Cook:
7 to 9 hours
Makes:
5 cups
Squash Blossom Quesadilla
Squash Blossom Quesadilla
Tortillas filled with tender sautéed squash blossoms and creamy cheese. Make them your own by adding salsa, peppers, cilantro or epazote.
Prepare:
10 minutes
Cook:
15 minutes
Makes:
6 quesadillas
Breakfast Banana Split
Breakfast Banana Split
Try this kid-approved recipe for a healthy and fun breakfast. Whole-grain cereal is topped with yogurt, pineapple and a drizzle of honey.
Prepare:
5 minutes
Makes:
2 Banana Splits
Prepare:
10 minutes
Cook:
10 minutes
Makes:
8 wedges
Chimichurri
Chimichurri
This fresh green sauce is perfect on grilled or roasted proteins and vegetables. Also use on grain bowls or as a marinade. Thanks to the Latin Heritage Workgroup for their assistance.
Prepare:
20 minutes
Makes:
1 cup

Comments
This is a no-fail way to cook quinoa. Turning off the heat and letting it sit to soak up remaining water keeps it from being soggy and overcooked.